U.S. Embassy thanks Bolivia for rescuing three Americans in Uyuni

Three U.S. tourists stranded southwest of Uyuni during an intense snowstorm were rescued after 17 Bolivian police officers moved into the storm to reach them.

The tourists could not continue in their vehicle after it broke down. They walked through the snow to an observatory, where they found shelter with a park ranger, according to information released about the operation.

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Three American tourists became stranded southwest of Uyuni because of intense snowfall. Seventeen members of Bolivian Police units from Uyuni and Potosí moved quickly into the snowstorm to provide assistance.

The rescue was organized by the Potosí Departmental Police Command after the tourists called for help. The operation took place during heavy snowfall that caused considerable damage in Potosí, Oruro and La Paz, leading several municipalities to declare disasters.

The U.S. Embassy in Bolivia published a video thanking the Bolivian Police. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Erik Martini praised the officers who carried out the mission and said their actions reflected Bolivia’s hospitality toward American visitors.

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I want to personally thank the brave members of the Bolivian Police who carried out this mission. Their actions represent the best of Bolivia and demonstrate the friendship and hospitality that attract so many Americans to Bolivia each year.